Zoned in Texas

March 19, 2025 by chorton Leave a Comment

Understanding Land-Use Regulations in Texas

Texas law allows public and private entities to regulate land use, often surprising landowners. These rules can affect property value, limit marketability, or block intended uses. Without proper knowledge, disputes and litigation may arise.

Public Land-Use Regulations
Municipalities primarily enforce public land-use rules, including zoning, platting, building codes, signage, and drainage.

Zoning: Defines permitted land uses through city regulations.
Platting: Ensures proper infrastructure for land development.
Building Codes: Establish safety standards based on international models.
Signage: Controls aesthetics and safety within legal limits.
Drainage: Manages water flow to prevent flooding.

Private Land-Use Regulations
Private restrictions stem from legal agreements between property owners and developers, including:

Restrictive Covenants: Limit land use to maintain property values.
Property Owners’ Associations (POAs): Enforce community rules and oversee approvals.
Easements: Grant third parties access for utilities, roads, or pipelines.

Due Diligence Matters
Buyers and sellers should conduct due diligence before transactions:

Identify Regulations: Check municipal websites and title insurance commitments.
Assess Impact: Evaluate zoning, easements, and covenants.
Explore Solutions: Consider rezoning, variances, or legal consultation.
Negotiate Terms: Extend due diligence periods if needed.

Real Estate Professionals’ Role
While not legal advisors, real estate professionals help clients navigate land-use issues by gathering information, identifying concerns, and recommending legal experts. Staying informed helps ensure smooth transactions and avoids costly mistakes.

Notes from original article by Reid Wilson, Published on Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center

Key Tips on Organic Gardening

March 19, 2025 by chorton Leave a Comment

Improve your health with a homegrown organic garden!

As the growing season approaches, there’s no better time to start your organic garden.

“Organic gardening for health and sustainability”—grow fresh, chemical-free produce while enriching soil, conserving water, and promoting eco-friendly practices. Not only will you enjoy fresh, chemical-free produce, but you’ll also improve soil health and promote sustainability.

Know Your Land

Before you start planting, it’s essential to assess your climate, soil, and microclimates. Understanding these factors will help you choose plants that thrive in your specific environment. Additionally, the USDA Hardiness Zone chart can serve as a valuable guide in determining the best crops for your area. To set your garden up for success, be sure to test your soil in the fall. This allows ample time to apply organic amendments and improve soil health before spring planting begins.

Plan Smart, Start Small

When starting out, it’s best to begin with a manageable plot and gradually expand as you gain experience. Not only does this make the process less overwhelming, but it also helps you fine-tune your gardening skills. Furthermore, implementing techniques like companion planting and crop rotation can improve soil balance and naturally deter pests. By growing a variety of seasonal crops, you’ll ensure a continuous and diverse harvest throughout the year.

Feed Your Soil Naturally

For a thriving garden, healthy soil is key. One of the best ways to enrich it is by composting kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and leaves. This creates nutrient-rich soil that supports strong plant growth. In addition, applying mulch helps retain moisture, prevents erosion, and suppresses weeds—making garden maintenance much easier. During the off-season, consider planting cover crops like clover, which naturally replenish soil nutrients and improve overall fertility.

Water Wisely

Proper watering is essential for plant health, but it’s important to do so efficiently. Using irrigation methods such as drip systems or soaker hoses conserves water while also reducing the risk of plant diseases. Additionally, collecting rainwater in barrels provides a sustainable, cost-effective way to keep your garden hydrated while reducing dependence on municipal water sources.

Organic Pest & Weed Control

Keeping pests and weeds under control doesn’t have to mean resorting to chemicals. Instead, encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs, which naturally help reduce harmful pests. Additionally, natural remedies such as neem oil and garlic spray serve as effective alternatives to synthetic pesticides. To further minimize weed growth, apply mulch or plant ground cover crops, which act as a protective barrier against unwanted weeds.

Harvest & Sustain

Once your crops reach peak ripeness, it’s time to harvest for the best flavor and nutritional value. To avoid waste and enjoy your homegrown produce year-round, consider preserving surplus harvests by drying, canning, or freezing them. Looking ahead, maintaining a thriving garden year after year requires thoughtful practices like crop rotation and regularly replenishing organic matter in the soil. These steps ensure long-term sustainability and continued productivity.

Starting a home garden not only boosts self-sufficiency and sustainability but also fosters a deeper connection with nature. By taking the time to understand your land, nurture your soil, and adopt eco-friendly gardening techniques, you can enjoy fresh, nutritious produce while making a positive impact on the environment.

Now is the perfect time to start preparing for a successful growing season! With careful planning and a little patience, your garden will flourish—bringing you an abundance of fresh food and a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

Read entire article by Ana Loor, published on Landhub.com

Buying a home in Texas

February 18, 2025 by chorton Leave a Comment

Whether you grew up in Texas, are relocating for work, or always dreamed of living in this affable state, it’s a great place to buy a house. Nicknamed the Lone Star state, Texas is the second most populous state in the country and the second largest state in land mass.

“Everything’s bigger in Texas” is a popular slogan, and this is true for houses as well. Buyers from other areas, especially New York City or Los Angeles, are often pleasantly surprised by how much square footage and outdoor space you get when buying a house in Texas. Your dollars might stretch much farther here than they do in many other states.

Another plus is that Texas doesn’t have state income tax, according to Rach Potter, who sells homes 42% quicker than the average agent in Dallas, Texas. Texas also has diverse scenery, major cities including Dallas, Houston, and Austin, rolling countryside, beaches, and lots of culinary delights and live music venues.

Stephenville Texas is a wonderful place to purchase your future home.

Stunning 4-Bedroom Home in Walking Horse Estates!

February 12, 2025 by chorton Leave a Comment

Discover this gorgeous 4-bedroom, 4-bath home in the highly sought-after Walking Horse Estates. Designed for both comfort and entertainment, this custom home features an open floor plan with soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and a cozy gas log fireplace. The spacious game room offers endless fun, while the expansive backyard—complete with a fire pit—is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Additional highlights include a private study with side yard access and a 500-gallon propane tank. Don’t miss your chance to see this exceptional home!

For more information or to schedule a showing, contact us today!

Spring Home Maintenance: Caring for Your Home Inside and Out

February 11, 2025 by chorton Leave a Comment

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, inside and out. After the wear and tear of winter, a little maintenance can enhance your home’s curb appeal and keep everything running smoothly. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to enjoy a well-maintained space, here are some essential spring home maintenance tips.

Exterior Spring Maintenance

Inspect the Roof & Gutters – Winter storms can damage your roof and clog gutters with debris. Check for missing shingles, leaks, and clear out any blockages to prevent water damage.
Power Wash & Paint Touch-Ups – Dirt and grime accumulate on siding, driveways, and walkways. A thorough power wash can give your home a fresh look. If needed, apply a fresh coat of paint to improve curb appeal.
Lawn & Garden Prep – Rake up leftover leaves, trim bushes, and reseed any bare patches in the lawn. Adding mulch to flower beds can enhance your landscaping and help retain moisture.
Check Windows & Doors – Inspect for any drafts or damaged seals. Washing your windows inside and out can instantly brighten up your home.
Outdoor Systems Check-Up – Ensure your sprinkler system is in good condition and ready for warmer months. Also, clean and inspect your air conditioning unit to keep it running efficiently.

Interior Spring Maintenance

Deep Clean & Declutter – Spring cleaning isn’t just a tradition; it helps maintain your home’s value. Dust baseboards, clean light fixtures, and declutter rooms to create a more inviting space.
Check HVAC Systems – Change air filters and schedule an HVAC inspection to make sure your system is in peak condition before summer heat sets in.
Inspect Plumbing – Look for leaks under sinks, check for slow drains, and ensure your water heater is functioning properly.
Test Safety Equipment – Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Also, check fire extinguishers to ensure they’re in working order.
Refresh Indoor Spaces – Swap out heavy winter décor for lighter, more colorful accents. Open windows on warmer days to bring in fresh air and reduce indoor pollutants.

Regular maintenance not only makes your home more enjoyable but also prevents costly repairs down the road. Whether you’re looking to enhance your property’s value or simply create a comfortable space, these spring home care tips will help you stay ahead.

For more detailed home maintenance checklists, visit HomeAdvisor’s Spring Maintenance Guide and Better Homes & Gardens Seasonal Home Care.

How To Buy Land For A Hobby Farm

February 11, 2025 by chorton Leave a Comment

For much of America’s history, small farms, including hobby farms, dominated the agricultural landscape. Today, these small family farms make up less than half of the nation’s agricultural land and contribute only 18% of total agricultural production. However, they remain a popular and rewarding investment for those looking to cultivate a small, personal farm for their family and community.

If you’re considering purchasing land for a hobby farm, here’s what you need to know to find the right property for your needs.

What is a Hobby Farm?

A hobby farm is a small-scale agricultural operation primarily for personal enjoyment and sustenance rather than for generating income. While hobby farmers may sell excess produce or livestock, the IRS does not classify these operations as for-profit businesses, meaning they are not eligible for business tax deductions.

What you choose to grow or raise on a hobby farm depends on factors such as location, expertise, and available land. Some hobby farmers cultivate fruits and vegetables, while others grow flowers, raise poultry, dairy cows, sheep, or even manage beekeeping or fish farming operations. Some also experiment with vineyards, producing homemade wines. With the right approach, a hobby farm can transition from a personal venture into a profitable small-scale farm.

Purchasing Land for a Hobby Farm

Selecting the right land is crucial when starting a hobby farm. The property’s size, quality, and zoning regulations will significantly impact your farming capabilities. Consider these essential factors:

Determine Your Budget

Farmland prices vary widely across the U.S., so it’s important to establish a clear budget. Consider the upfront land costs as well as ongoing expenses, such as property maintenance, seeds, fertilizers, equipment, permits, and taxes. If purchasing undeveloped land, factor in costs for essential improvements like utility connections, fencing, and road access. For a breakdown of farmland prices across different states, visit Farm Bureau for more insights.

Search Available Listings

To find land that meets your requirements, explore listings on reputable platforms such as LandHub, where you can filter searches by location, acreage, and price. Once you narrow your choices, work with a local real estate agent specializing in rural properties to guide you through property viewings, negotiations, and the purchase process.

Ensure the Property Suits Your Needs

Key factors to evaluate include zoning regulations, soil quality, and climate suitability. Most hobby farms operate on agricultural-zoned (A-1) land, which permits crop cultivation, livestock raising, and equipment storage. The property’s climate and soil composition should align with your farming goals. While many hobby farms operate on less than 50 acres, some thrive on just 10 acres or fewer.

Visit and Assess the Property

Before making a purchase, conduct a thorough on-site assessment. Walk the land, examine the terrain, and check for essential features like water sources. Hire professionals to test soil quality and water safety, and consult a building surveyor if you plan to construct a residence or other structures on the land.

Turning a Hobby Farm into a Profitable Venture

Many hobby farmers generate income through farmers’ markets, home sales, or Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. If you decide to transition into a for-profit farm, familiarize yourself with the IRS’s Hobby Farm Loss Rule (Form 1040, Section 183) to understand tax deductions and financial considerations.

Is a hobby farm a worthwhile investment? That depends on your financial situation and expectations. If you’re taking on significant debt, the risks may outweigh the benefits. However, if you can cover land and operational costs comfortably, hobby farming can be a fulfilling and financially sustainable endeavor, offering both personal and community rewards.

Original Blog: https://www.landhub.com/land-news/how-to-buy-land-for-a-hobby-farm?inf_contact_key=3631bf5eb9c0a816536f04cbe45ac755680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1

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